T. C. Hooper Planetarium

Opening in 1989, the planetarium was named for T.C. Hooper who was instrumental for the early fund raising of monies for many of the facilities now at Roper Mountain, including the planetarium.

After closing for a yearlong renovation, this world class facility now features a new 360° full immersion dome, 4K projection, state-of-the-art lighting, dynamic 5.1 surround sound, interactive lobby exhibits, expanded curriculum, new shows, and more. The Hooper Planetarium features the first American installation of the Spitz 4K IQ projection system. Programming includes entertaining, inspiring, and educational classes in astronomy, earth science, life science, anatomy, and history for students and the public.

The public can come to the planetarium during the Friday Starry Nights program and on 2nd Saturdays. The schedule on Friday nights includes Carolina Skies (a live sky talk), the feature show, and the ever popular Rollercoaster.

We would like to thank all of our community supporters of the Planetarium renovation that will allow us to deliver the newest content with a state-of-the-art system to over 30,000 students and 30,000 families every year!